Rumours: Reina’s Milan medical to trigger four-way keeping circus

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EX-LIVERPOOL goalkeeper Pepe Reina has undergone a medical at AC Milan, according to the Daily Mail, in a move which could trigger a massive goalkeeping merry go round with ramifications for a number of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Reina’s contract at Napoli expires at the end of the season and speculation is rife that he’s set to replace teenage stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma at the San Siro.

19-year-old Donnarrumma, once priced at €170m (AU$266m) by his agent Mino Raiola, is considered one of the best young players in Europe, and with the Spanish veteran set to arrive, clubs will no doubt be on alert as to the availability of the teenager.

Camera IconAC Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi DonnarummaPicture: AP

The Italian international’s relationship with Milan fans has been frosty in recent times, with fans throwing fake money at him during an Under-21 international fixture after he initially refused to sign a contract extension at the club.

And it appears his exit is fast approaching, despite a recent string of good performances which have helped Gennaro Gatusso’s side rise up to sixth in the Serie A.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Chelsea are keeping tabs on the teen star, lining him up as a replacement for potentially departing keeper Thibaut Courtois.

The Belgian’s current deal at Stamford Bridge expires in 2019, with Spanish giants Real Madrid heavily linked with a move for the 25-year-old, who, according to the Independent, they’re prepared to spend over €100m (AU$156m) on.

The Blues could be forced to sell Courtois, if he decides against signing a new contract at the club, or face losing him for free. And as contract talks continue to rumble on, it appears more and more likely that he could leave the club.

Camera IconChelsea's Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut CourtoisPicture: AFP

The report suggest Donnarumma is Chelsea’s number one target in the event of the ex-Atletico man’s exit, and adds that the youngster’s Milan exit could be fast tracked thanks to a falling out between his agent and the club.

However the latest reports from the Evening Standard suggest that Courtois could stay put owing to the fact that Los Merengues are eyeing up cheaper alternatives, with Hajduk Split keeper Karlo Letica thought to be seen as a possible back-up.

But in a contrasting report from French outlet Telefoot, it is suggested that PSG are set to compete with Real for the signings of Courtois and Manchester United star David de Gea, who they’re ready to spend €100m (AU$156m) on according to the Daily Star – as well as Donnarumma.

It appears Reina’s arrival in Milan could be the catalyst for one of the craziest transfer windows in recent memory.